EPL transfer update: Manchester United officially complete Benjamin Sesko signing

Manchester United's long quest for an out-and-out striker is officially over. Slovenian goal-machine Benjamin Sesko has signed on the dotted line for the Red Devils on Saturday (August 9). While Newcastle United's bid was considerably higher, Sesko's preference for United meant that he was always destined for Old Trafford.

The 22-year-old has signed for a fee of £73.7m (including add-ons) on a five-year contract that runs till 2030 with a guaranteed fee of £66.3m with the rest to be included in bonuses and other forms. Sesko brings with him the classic mix of being a prodigy with pedigree, given that he was the highest goal-scorer among U-23 players in Europe's top five leagues last season.

The former RB Leipzig striker knows that the value of the deal at Newcastle was much higher, not just financially but also due to the fact that the Magpies had qualified for Champions League football next season.

However, like many players in the modern era, the aura of being at Old Trafford attracted Sesko, so much so that he was determined to join Ruben Amorim's side ahead of the 2025-26 English Premier League season.

"The history of Manchester United is obviously very special but what really excites me is the future," said Sesko at his first official press conference as Manchester United player.

"When we discussed the project, it was clear that everything is in place for this team to continue to grow and compete for the biggest trophies again soon.

"From the moment that I arrived, I could feel the positive energy and family environment that the club has created. It is clearly the perfect place to reach my maximum level and fulfil all of my ambitions.

"I cannot wait to start learning from Ruben and connecting with my team-mates to achieve the success that we all know we are capable of together."

Sesko's penchant for powerful long-range shots and his aerial prowess is what makes him a key figure in attack. While he may not be the quickest going around, the Slovenian does offer a lot physically and can be hard to take down for opposition defenders. Manchester United's Director of Football, Jason Wilcox, was upbeat about the club's latest signing and hopes that his stint with United turns out to be a win-win situation for the club and player.

"Benjamin possesses a rare combination of electrifying pace and the ability to physically dominate defenders, making him one of the most exceptional young talents in world football," said Manchester United director of football Jason Wilcox.

"We have followed Benjamin's career closely; all of our data analysis and research concluded that he has the required qualities and personality to thrive at Manchester United.

"Working under the guidance of Ruben and our excellent performance team, Benjamin is joining the perfect environment to support him to reach his world-class potential."